Who can receive Zakat? The Qur’an identifies eight categories of eligible Zakat recipients in Surah At-Tawbah 9:60: the poor, the needy, Zakat administrators, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, people in bondage, people in debt, those in the cause of Allah, and stranded travellers.
This verse provides the primary Qur’anic framework for Zakat eligibility. It also explains why Zakat cannot simply be given to any charitable cause. A valid Zakat payment must reach someone or something that falls within a category recognised by Islamic law.
If you are wondering who is eligible for Zakat, this guide explains all eight categories by Quran 9:60 Zakat recipients, common exclusions, and how a responsible charity can distribute Zakat according to the Qur’anic framework.
Quick answer: The 8 recipients of Zakat mentioned in Quran 9:60 are:
- The poor (al-fuqara)
- The needy (al-masakin)
- Zakat administrators (al-amilina alayha)
- Those whose hearts are to be reconciled (al-mu’allafati qulubuhum)
- Those in bondage (fi al-riqab)
- People in debt (al-gharimin)
- For the cause of Allah (fi سبيل الله)
- Stranded travellers (ibn al-sabil)
The Verse Behind the Rules: Quran 9:60
The eight categories come directly from Surah At-Tawbah, verse 60.
The verse states that Zakat expenditures are for the poor and needy, those employed to administer it, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, freeing those in bondage, those in debt, the cause of Allah, and the stranded traveller. It concludes by describing this allocation as an obligation from Allah and affirming His knowledge and wisdom.
The Arabic verse uses the word “innama”, which conveys restriction or limitation. This is why Muslim scholars have treated Quran 9:60 as the central textual basis for determining the legitimate recipients of obligatory Zakat.
Quran.com provides the Arabic text and translations of Surah At-Tawbah 9:60, while classical commentaries such as Tafsir Ibn Kathir discuss the meanings and applications of the eight categories.
Why Quran 9:60 matters for Zakat
Zakat is not simply another form of voluntary charity.
It is an obligatory act of worship with specific rules concerning:
- Who must pay it
- How much is due
- When it becomes due
- What types of wealth are subject to Zakat
- Who can receive it
- How Zakat funds should be distributed
The eight categories in Quran 9:60 therefore act as a framework for Zakat recipient eligibility.
There are differences among scholars regarding some details within these categories. However, the eight broad categories themselves are explicitly identified in the Qur’an.
The 8 Categories of Quran 9:60 Zakat Recipients
1. The Poor — Al-Fuqara
The first category is al-fuqara, generally translated as the poor.
These are people whose available resources are insufficient to meet their essential needs.
A person may have some income or possessions and still fall into this category if those resources do not adequately cover basic necessities. Depending on the school of Islamic jurisprudence and the circumstances being considered, assessments can involve a person’s income, essential expenses, dependants, assets, and financial situation.
Who may qualify as poor?
Examples can include someone who:
- Cannot afford adequate food
- Struggles to pay essential household expenses
- Has insufficient income for basic living needs
- Supports dependants but lacks sufficient resources
- Has experienced a serious financial crisis
The important point is that poverty should be assessed based on genuine financial need rather than appearance alone.
Some people experiencing poverty may also avoid asking others for help. Therefore, someone does not necessarily become ineligible for Zakat simply because they do not openly ask for money.
2. The Needy — Al-Masakin
The second category is al-masakin, commonly translated as the needy or destitute.
The distinction between faqir and miskin has been discussed extensively by Islamic scholars. Their definitions are not identical across all classical works and schools of jurisprudence.
A practical understanding is that this category covers people whose financial resources do not adequately meet their basic needs.
For example, a household may have some income but still struggle to pay for:
- Food
- Housing
- Clothing
- Essential utilities
- Basic healthcare
- Necessary education or household expenses
The poor and needy are often the most visible Zakat beneficiaries because Zakat can provide direct financial relief to people who cannot meet essential living costs.
Why are poor and needy people mentioned first?
Classical scholars noted that the Qur’an begins its list with the poor and needy.
This highlights the importance of addressing genuine financial hardship when distributing Zakat. Ibn Kathir’s commentary discusses the needs of these groups and the evidence relating to their entitlement.
3. Zakat Administrators — Al-Amilina Alayha
The third category is al-amilina alayha, referring to people employed to administer Zakat.
Zakat collection and distribution can involve legitimate administrative work, including identifying eligible recipients, collecting Zakat, maintaining records, and distributing funds.
The Qur’an therefore recognises Zakat administrators as one of the eight categories.
However, this category should not be interpreted as permission for any charity’s general operating expenses to automatically be paid from Zakat.
Whether particular salaries, administrative costs, projects, or organisational expenses qualify under this category can involve detailed Islamic jurisprudential considerations.
A responsible Zakat policy should therefore clearly explain how this category is interpreted and applied.
4. Those Whose Hearts Are to Be Reconciled — Al-Mu’allafati Qulubuhum
The fourth category is al-mu’allafati qulubuhum, often translated as people whose hearts are to be reconciled or brought closer.
Classical Islamic scholarship discusses several situations connected with this category, including people whose relationship with Islam or the Muslim community was relevant to protecting or strengthening the faith community.
There are differences among scholars about the circumstances in which this category applies today.
Some classical interpretations include people who had recently accepted Islam or people whose support could help protect the Muslim community. Contemporary Zakat policies may apply this category differently depending on their scholarly framework.
Because of these differences, donors should not assume that every modern religious, educational, or outreach project automatically qualifies as Zakat under this category.
5. Those in Bondage — Fi Al-Riqab
The fifth category is fi al-riqab, traditionally associated with freeing people from bondage or slavery.
The historical context of this category relates to people who were enslaved and needed financial assistance to obtain freedom.
The Qur’an specifically identifies freeing people from bondage as a legitimate Zakat expenditure.
Modern circumstances raise additional questions about whether and how this category can be applied today. Scholars and Zakat institutions may differ in their interpretations.
This is another reason Zakat should be distributed through a clearly defined Shariah-based policy rather than treating every humanitarian project as automatically eligible.
6. People in Debt — Al-Gharimin
The sixth category is al-gharimin, meaning people who are burdened by qualifying debts.
Debt can place an otherwise self-sufficient person in serious financial hardship.
A person may potentially qualify for Zakat when they have a legitimate debt they cannot reasonably repay from their available resources.
Examples may include someone who:
- Has become unable to repay a legitimate personal debt
- Faces serious financial hardship because of debt
- Took on a financial obligation for a legitimate purpose and cannot now meet it
- Became responsible for a qualifying debt incurred to resolve a dispute or help others
Not every debt automatically makes someone eligible.
Questions can arise about the reason for the debt, the person’s assets and ability to repay, and the nature of the financial obligation. Specific rulings can vary according to scholarly interpretation.
Therefore, Zakat eligibility for debtors should be assessed on the person’s actual circumstances.
7. For the Cause of Allah — Fi Sabilillah
The seventh category is fi sabilillah, commonly translated as “in the cause of Allah.”
This is one of the categories where interpretation can differ significantly.
Classical discussions often connect fi sabilillah with military struggle undertaken in the legitimate cause of Allah. Some later and contemporary scholars have considered broader applications.
Because interpretations differ, it is important not to assume that every charitable, educational, religious, humanitarian, or community project automatically qualifies for Zakat under fi sabilillah.
A Zakat organisation should have a defined scholarly basis for applying funds to this category.
For donors, the practical question is simple:
Does the organisation have a documented Zakat policy explaining why its projects qualify under Quran 9:60?
That question can help you distinguish Zakat distribution from general charitable spending.
8. Stranded Travellers — Ibn Al-Sabil
The eighth category is ibn al-sabil, literally referring to the traveller or wayfarer.
This category concerns a traveller who becomes financially stranded and cannot access the resources needed to continue their journey or return home.
A person may have money or property in their home country and still face immediate financial hardship while travelling.
For example, someone could lose access to their money, become stranded away from home, or face an unexpected financial crisis during a journey.
The underlying principle is temporary financial need caused by being away from one’s normal resources.
Classical Islamic commentary discusses the traveller as someone who becomes unable to access what they need during a journey.
Who Is Eligible for Zakat?
The question “who is eligible for Zakat?” cannot always be answered simply by asking whether someone is poor.
The Qur’an provides eight categories, but determining whether a particular person qualifies can require examining their circumstances.
A Zakat assessment may consider:
- Their income
- Essential living expenses
- Available savings
- Assets
- Debts
- Dependants
- Whether the person can meet basic needs
- The reason for their financial hardship
- Whether they fall within one of the eight Qur’anic categories
This is why Zakat eligibility is ultimately a matter of Islamic rules rather than simply a charity’s personal preference.
Who Does NOT Qualify for Zakat?
Understanding who cannot receive Zakat is just as important as understanding the eight recipients.
1. People who do not fall within a recognised Zakat category
A person does not become Zakat-eligible simply because they would benefit from financial assistance.
They must fall within one of the categories established in Quran 9:60 according to the applicable Islamic interpretation.
2. Wealthy people who have no qualifying reason
Zakat is not intended as a general payment to people who are financially self-sufficient.
A wealthy person may only fall within certain categories in circumstances recognised by Islamic jurisprudence. Therefore, wealth alone does not answer every Zakat question.
3. Charity projects that do not qualify as Zakat expenditure
A project can be beneficial and still not be eligible for Zakat.
For example, a general charitable initiative may be suitable for Sadaqah but require a different Islamic ruling before Zakat can be used.
This distinction matters because Zakat and Sadaqah are not interchangeable.
If you want to understand the difference, see our guide to [the difference between Zakat, Sadaqah and Lillah].
4. People who are financially supported by you in circumstances where Zakat cannot replace that responsibility
There are detailed Islamic rulings concerning giving Zakat to close relatives.
In general, a person should not use Zakat to avoid a financial responsibility they are already Islamically required to fulfil. Rules can differ according to the relationship and school of jurisprudence.
For complicated family situations, it is better to ask a qualified scholar rather than rely on a general internet rule.
Can You Give Zakat to Family Members?
This is one of the most common questions about who can receive Zakat.
A family member can potentially receive Zakat if they genuinely qualify under one of the eight categories and you are not already Islamically obligated to financially support them.
For example, some relatives may be eligible because they are poor, needy, or in qualifying debt.
However, parents, children, spouses, and other relatives can have different rulings depending on the relationship and circumstances.
If you are considering paying Zakat to a relative, check the relevant ruling with a qualified scholar.
Zakat vs Sadaqah: Why the Difference Matters
Zakat is an obligatory act of worship with defined eligibility rules.
Sadaqah is voluntary charity and generally has a much broader range of permissible beneficiaries and causes.
That difference is particularly important when donating through a charity.
A charity may support:
- Food aid
- Water projects
- Orphan support
- Education
- Emergency assistance
- Healthcare
- Livelihood programmes
But the fact that a project is charitable does not automatically mean Zakat can fund it.
For a detailed explanation, read our guide on the difference between Zakat, Sadaqah and Lillah.
How We Distribute Zakat at Your Impact Foundation
At Your Impact Foundation, Zakat distribution is presented as a restricted form of charitable giving rather than general-purpose funding.
The foundation states that its Zakat funds are ring-fenced for Quran-eligible beneficiaries and that its 100% Donation Policy means Zakat donations are not used for administrative deductions.
According to its published Zakat policy, administrative and operational costs are covered separately, while Zakat is allocated to eligible beneficiaries and qualifying programmes.
The foundation also states that it is a registered charity in England and Wales under Charity Number 1192710.
For donors, this distinction matters because a clear Zakat policy helps explain:
- Who may receive Zakat
- How recipient eligibility is assessed
- How Zakat funds are separated from general donations
- Which projects can receive Zakat
- How the organisation handles administration and distribution
You can read the full [100% Donation Policy] before deciding how you want to give.
If you are ready to fulfil your Zakat obligation, you can pay Zakat online in the UK through Your Impact Foundation.
Why Choosing the Right Zakat Distribution Channel Matters
Giving Zakat is an act of worship and a financial responsibility.
That means donors need more than a simple “Donate Zakat” button.
Before giving, consider whether the organisation:
- Explains its Zakat eligibility rules
- Identifies the eight Qur’anic categories
- Separates Zakat from unrestricted charity funds
- Explains how recipient needs are assessed
- Publishes its Zakat policy
- Provides information about its registration and governance
- Clearly explains where Zakat funds are distributed
A transparent approach can help donors understand how their obligation is being fulfilled.
For Muslims looking for ways to use Zakat to address poverty, our guide on [how Islamic charities use Zakat to help end poverty] provides further context.
Can I Pay Zakat on Behalf of Someone Else?
This is another common question among families.
Whether you can pay Zakat on behalf of another person depends on the circumstances and whether the person has authorised you to act for them.
If you are asking this because you want to pay Zakat for a spouse, parent, child, or another family member, see our detailed guide on whether you can pay Zakat on behalf of someone else.
For personal cases involving different ownership of wealth, intention, or missed Zakat payments, consult a qualified Islamic scholar.
How Do You Know Who Should Receive Zakat?
When deciding who should receive Zakat, start with the Qur’anic categories rather than simply looking for the most emotionally compelling appeal.
A practical process is:
Step 1: Identify the type of donation
Determine whether you are paying obligatory Zakat or voluntary Sadaqah.
Step 2: Check the recipient category
Ask whether the intended beneficiary falls within one of the eight categories in Quran 9:60.
Step 3: Check the organisation’s Zakat policy
If you are donating through a charity, read how it determines Zakat eligibility.
Step 4: Check fund separation
Find out whether Zakat is kept separate from general charitable funds.
Step 5: Give through a trusted channel
Use an organisation that clearly explains its distribution process and accountability.
If you are ready to fulfil your obligation, you can pay your Zakat online in the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions About Zakat Recipients
Who are the 8 recipients of Zakat?
The eight recipients mentioned in Quran 9:60 are the poor, the needy, Zakat administrators, those whose hearts are to be reconciled, those in bondage, people in debt, those in the cause of Allah, and stranded travellers.
Who can receive Zakat?
A person or group can receive Zakat when they fall within one of the eight categories identified in Quran 9:60, subject to the relevant Islamic jurisprudential rules.
Who is eligible for Zakat?
People experiencing genuine poverty or need may qualify, as may qualifying Zakat administrators, debtors, stranded travellers, and other categories listed in Quran 9:60. Eligibility depends on the person’s circumstances and the applicable Islamic interpretation.
Can a poor relative receive Zakat?
A poor relative may receive Zakat if they meet the conditions of a Zakat recipient and you are not already Islamically obligated to provide for them. Rules concerning parents, children, spouses, and other relatives can differ, so specific cases should be checked with a qualified scholar.
Can Zakat be given to someone in debt?
Yes. People in qualifying debt are explicitly included among the eight categories in Quran 9:60. The debt and the person’s financial circumstances must still meet the relevant conditions.
Can Zakat be given to travellers?
Yes. The Qur’an specifically includes ibn al-sabil, or the stranded traveller, among the eight Zakat categories.
Is Zakat the same as Sadaqah?
No. Zakat is an obligatory act of worship with specific eligibility and distribution rules. Sadaqah is voluntary charity and generally has broader uses.
Do I have to divide Zakat equally among all eight categories?
Not necessarily. Classical scholars differed on whether Zakat must be distributed among all eight categories or may be directed to one or more eligible categories. Ibn Kathir records this difference of opinion, including the view that the categories identify legitimate recipients rather than requiring equal distribution among all eight.
Why does Quran 9:60 list eight categories?
The verse establishes the recognised expenditure categories for obligatory Zakat. It therefore provides the primary Qur’anic basis for determining who qualifies to receive Zakat.
The Bottom Line: Who Should Receive Zakat?
The Qur’an gives a clear framework for who should receive Zakat.
According to Quran 9:60, the eight categories are:
- The poor
- The needy
- Zakat administrators
- Those whose hearts are to be reconciled
- Those in bondage
- People in debt
- Those in the cause of Allah
- Stranded travellers
The key lesson is that Zakat is not simply a general donation pool. It is an obligation with defined recipients and rules.
If you are giving Zakat through a charity, look for a clear Zakat policy, transparent eligibility process, and explanation of how funds are distributed.
Your Zakat can become a means of supporting people facing poverty, debt, displacement, and other forms of legitimate hardship when it is distributed according to the principles established in Islam.
Ready to fulfil your Zakat obligation? You can [pay Zakat online in the UK] through Your Impact Foundation and learn more about its published Zakat distribution and 100% Donation Policy.
